Peter Michael L’Après-Midi Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2021

Robert ParkerThe 2021 Sauvignon Blanc L’Après-Midi, blended with 3% Sémillon, fermented in barrel and matured for eight months, bursts from the glass with touches of flint and candle smoke that give way to apricot, acacia and alluring herbal tones. The light-bodied, gently creamy palate surprises with its explosive, lime and panna cotta-driven flavors, expanding to more savory beeswax undertones as it glides across the palate, complemented by focused acidity. Powerful yet energetic, it promises dynamic development in bottle over the next 5-7 years or more. 2,038 cases were made.

James SucklingThis is very complex and dense, with layers of fruit, dried apricot and pine needles, as well as maple-tree highlights. Dried lemons and pears, too. Phenolic and structured. Chewy. So flavorful. 7% semillon in this. It will age beautifully. Drink or hold.

Jeb DunnuckThe pale straw-colored 2021 Sauvignon Blanc L'Apres-Midi is perfumed with soft tropical fruit of guava, white grapefruit, vanilla, and white flowers. Medium to full-bodied, with a good, rounded texture of soft stones and notes of lemon curd, pineapple, and baking spice, it’s long on the palate and has a clean lift without feeling harsh. Drink 2023-2030.

VinousThe 2021 Sauvignon Blanc L'Après-Midi is an airy, elegant wine. Hints of sage, dried pear, mint and lemon peel open nicely with a bit of coaxing. This is an especially reticent vintage for L'Après-Midi, but the 2021 is a serious wine that just needs cellaring. I would give this a year or two in bottle at a minimum. The natural intensity of this low-yielding vintage is very much in evidence.